Overview
This study involves a randomized controlled trial of Fathers for Change (F4C) compared to Individual Drug Counseling (IDC) with a sample of 280 fathers enrolled in substance use (SU) treatment within community or veterans (VA) healthcare settings to (a) demonstrate F4C efficacy compared to IDC in reducing SU and family violence (FV) at end of treatment, 3- and 6-month post-treatment follow-up, and (b) document improved emotion regulation as the mechanism within F4C that results in reduced SU and FV.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria:
- meet DSM-5 criteria for an SU disorder at the time of assessment at APT or VACHS;
- report FV within the last 18 months prior to screening (based on self, court, police or child protection reports);
- have at least one biological child aged 1 to 12 years with whom they live or have at least twice per month in person visits;
- are able to complete assessments in English; and
- agree to have their female coparents (mother of the youngest child) contacted for participation of their youngest child. If a participant has more than one child in the age range, the youngest will be the target of assessment and treatment.
Exclusion Criteria:
- an active full/no contact protective order pertaining to their child;
- physiological addiction to a substance that requires detoxification (such individuals may be re-evaluated following detox);
- cognitive impairment (a mini mental state score <25);
- current untreated psychotic/bipolar disorder;
- currently suicidal or homicidal based on Brief Symptom Inventory Screening and follow-up on positive responses; or
- are currently receiving weekly individual therapy for Substance misuse or family violence